Taiwan/PRC Issue

I have exchanged several emails with a well-regarded foreigner who blogs from Taiwan; here is my most recent contribution:

I'm aware of the irony involved in our usage of 'Taiwan independence'--though in practical terms, I think all parties know what we're discussing.  The cross-Straits dispute is not, imho, about a misunderstanding of the phrase 'Taiwan independence'.

My question concerns the real-world implications of Taiwan making a clearer declaration of independence; my question does not relate to the underlying reasonableness of such a declaration.  The United States cannot afford to watch and wait, of course--it undoubtedly has lines of communication open with Tsai Ing-wen.  US diplomats--now--would almost certainly have to be telling DPP leaders that the US will not support a change in Taiwan's stance stressing (moreso than previously) independence or non-ambiguity.  If Taiwan's electorate wants to choose a policy change that is anathema to Beijing, the US should make clear that they gamble on their own account.  Taiwan independence, we agree, is a reasonable hope--but I don't support it to such a degree that I'd be willing to contribute billions (or soldiers' lives). 

Perhaps you think no future statement from a Pres. Tsai could be viewed as provocative by Beijing, since Ma Ying-jeou has already made this statement.  Or perhaps you simply don't believe Beijing is serious, with its threats.  Or perhaps you think that--with or without cross-Strait hostilities--the US will play no role and thus should have no say.  Worry-wart that I am, I take Beijing's threats seriously, I think hostilities would really suck both for the people of Taiwan and for US interests and I believe Beijing is serious with its threats.

Anyway, thanks again for your thoughtful contributions to this discussion--I in no way seek to personalize our variance in outlook, and freely admit that I may be wrong, on big points and on small, and thank the person who can set me straight.